[Tru_in_Blu]

As part of an evaluation for NFHS, I was told to always put the ball in play by utilizing at least a hand signal. Even with no runners on base, we're supposed to do this, which seems unnecessary. I was told it was a matter of consistency. And I watched several of our top-rated "AA" officials that didn't do this.

I attended the NUS in CT this spring and asked a question about this subject. I was told by several instructors that the only time they declare "Play" was at the start of the game. I admit that I do it at the start of each half-inning, if not verbally, at least a hand signal.